Two things struck me most about this film, the music, and the amazing, iconic cinematography. Nichols somehow fuses the beautifully, the product is a truly stunning film. Nichols creates an inner voice within Benjamin Braddock through the use of powerful cinematography and a great soundtrack, this inner voice is what makes this film so great. With the Hays Code now gone actors, directors and cinematographers had full creative and artistic freedom. So many doors were opened in the world of film in the late sixties, and it seems as though The Graduate led the way. Everything about this film is great, the storyline is so simple yet so complex. Everyone can relate to these feelings but no one knows how to deal with them. Benjamin Braddock is such an easy character to relate too. With that said, it is obvious that The Graduate is a truly iconic film and it deserves every praise it gets.
Reviews
18 Reviews
Kiss Me Deadly
(1955)
The Coming of the Thriller
10 November 2009
After seeing Kiss Me Deadly (1955) one can understand that the overzealous Hollywood thrillers are here to say. Pre-1940s horror films had a different quality and a different feel to them, they weren't trying to be real. Kiss Me Deadly is a somewhat bland Hollywood production, the script is so-so and the acting isn't great. The thing that always puzzles me about these films is that movies made 35 years previous seem to have much more beautiful lighting and acting, even though it was a far more primitive time. Take for instance, a movie like I Am a Fugitive From a Chain Gang, made some 23 years previous, has a much more startling production. The feel and lighting has a much greater artistic feel. It seems as though with age films should get better, not worse (But there are many exceptions to this accusation). To me this film stands side by side to, say, something like Stephen King's Pet Semetary, a thriller made simply to thrill. No other ideas were taken into consideration when this film was made, and you can tell.
Bonnie and Clyde
(1967)
A Landmark
10 November 2009
Bonnie and Clyde (1967) is a beautiful film made great by a powerful cast and superb writing. The first scene of the movie, the one which Bonnie and Clyde are seen walking through town, sets the scene for the rest of the film. Two complimentary, yet so different characters that work so well together. Various things struck me in this movie as different. For one this is the first film from this era that i've seen to have any sexual prowess, it is refreshing yet at the same time, a foreshadow for trash films to come. Something that comes to mind is the great color and texture of the early Technicolor films. The outdoor, on location scenes are so beautiful and provide so much sense of reality to the viewer. The sky is so blue, and the trees so green. It is interesting to see how the movies of the 50s and 60s fuse modern ideas with the old school glamor and shine. These two decades are very, very important for modern day film making. The scripts were finally opened up to include more modern ideas and modern writing. Warren Beatty's performance is stunning, as he fuses the boyhood hero with the "mans man". Overall this is a great landmark film for any movie watcher.
Written on the Wind
(1956)
Turning Point for Modern Filmaking
10 November 2009
Written on the Wind (1956) is a great film directed by Douglas Sirk, this film has a combination of many great pieces of the puzzle that makes a great movie. Numerous things stood out to me that helped this movie turn into a classic. For one the combination of long shots and short scenes creates diverse action throughout the film. The long takes provide a powerful sense of reality, this coupled with the great dialog make this movie feel like real life. The long takes work so well with the superb editing and great quick takes. This idea provides the best of both worlds, and creates the feel of a modern classic. To me 1955 (give or take a year or two) is a turning year in the world of film. The technology was finally good enough to keep up with a directors ideas, yet at the same time nothing was lost like it is today, in the world of special effects and 'high quality' cameras. With that said, some of the acting throughout this film is quite sub par, Robert Stack's (who plays Kyle Hadley) performance was less that convincing. Luckily not all was lost, the roles by Rock Hudson and Lauren Bacall were quite good. Overall this film was very good and quite entertaining, as someone who is no so versed in film history my first impression is that this movie, and others like it from this era, were a turning point into the age of modern film making.
The Birth of a Nation
(1915)
Not a favorite, but a landmark
10 November 2009
D.W. Griffith's The Birth of a Nation (1915) is a solid film, but to me it doesen't translate as great. I believe this film is sub par for many reasons, granted this film was made in 1915 and grossed over 10 million dollars, but it seems that the beauty and art of other early silents is lost in The Birth of a Nation. Unlike Sunrise or other silents, The Birth of a Nation lacks the powerful cinematography and the undeniable romantic story. Griffith seems to struggle with the lack of sound, there are many subtitles inserted throughout. He also over zealously uses a soundtrack throughout the movie, something that seems unnecessary. Perhaps I am spoiled by the artistic creations of Murnau, but Griffith and The Birth of a Nation do not get me too exited. The stationary cameras, and the quick edits paired with non-complimentary sound gets boring in a 3 hour film. That is not to say that The Birth of a Nation was not an influential film. To create a 3 hour epic in 1915 was unheard of, people flocked to the theaters to see this film, it created controversy and it grossed over 10 million dollars. Overall I wasn't so impressed with this film, but it is an obvious landmark for movie making history.
A Classic
10 November 2009
The Postman Always Rings Twice (1946) is a film noir classic that is often overlooked. The soundtrack is superb and it compliments the feel and vibe of the film very well. The story line is fairly straightforward with the occasional twist and turn, but there is no denying the romance that lies beneath the plot. Like with many film noirs the lighting in this movie is great, its dark, yet at the same time one can feel a sense of light perpetuating throughout. One scene in particular that stood out was the scene when Frank, played by John Garfield, and Cora, played by Lana Turner, share their first dance. In a swift one shot scene Frank and Cora dance eloquently to a upbeat song, the lighting changes constantly and the viewer can feel the loving tension between the two. The editing, directions, writing and casting were done very well throughout this movie. To create a quality film every piece of the puzzle must be perfect and fit well, this is the case with The Postman Always Rings Twice, a dazzling film noir classic.
Mildred Pierce
(1945)
Mildred Peirce
9 November 2009
Mildred Peirce (1945) is a powerful movie that falls into the 'film noir' category. The dark scenes, the damsel in distress and the romance that drives the entire film. This description makes a 'film noir' look simple but Mildred Peirce was quite the opposite. With intensely dynamic characters and a wild plot, director Micheal Curtiz succeeded in making a great film. While staying in the genre of 'film noir' he was able to deviate from the norm and create a stunning, unpredictable film. One aspect that stood out was the use of lighting throughout the movie. Curtiz created an ongoing lighting theme throughout, with dark colors and large shadows. This helped him portray the dark world wherein Mildred Peirce took place. Another very important aspect of this film is the casting. Each and every character of this movie is so perfect for their roles, everyone complements each other and the foils are very powerful. Overall Mildred Peirce is a powerful film noir masterpiece.
Sunrise
(1927)
A Golden Masterpiece
9 November 2009
Warning: Spoilers
Sunrise: A Song of Two Humans (1927) has so many different layers and feelings throughout the film. F.W. Murnau is a pioneer in the world of movie making and direction. He creates such a beautiful setting and such beautiful characters with very primitive technology. Perhaps this is why the film is so amazing. Murnau, and the leading actors were so focused on creating characters and creating a story, to not be bogged down by speech or soundtrack, was surprisingly, a blessing in disguise. Although obviously no script was written, the screenplay was stunning. A powerful, dynamic and quite confusing story was depicted by pictures alone. It is amazing to see how Murnau created a song of two humans so eloquently without even the slightest sound. No wonder many consider the 20s the golden era of film making.
The Lady from Shanghai
(1947)
A Milestone
26 October 2009
The Lady From Shanghai (1947) is a great, somewhat unknown Orson Welles film. Although it is not regarded as one of his better films (it is often times regarded as his worst) there is a palpable story line and solid acting. The storyline of the film is at times quite confusing, but it is fairly understandable, tangible throughout. Having not seen many other Orson Welles films it is hard to compare, but The Lady of Shanghai seemed like a great film. The daring Welles took a confusing script and translated it very well to film. The acting is superb as are the many intricate shot sequences. One scene in particular stood out, the night scene with the Mexican picnic. I'm not sure whether or not it was filmed on location, but everything looked startlingly real. The night sky, the ocean, even the local Mexicans serving the food. Little things like this make a movie. Somehow Welles is able to create beautiful colors and moods on black and white film, something I've yet to see from anyone else (except maybe Murnau). It is remarkable how Welles can act so beautifully, and direct so fluidly at the same time. Overall The Lady from Shanghai is a great film, and a milestone for modern movie making.
All This, and Heaven Too
(1940)
All This, and Heaven Too
21 October 2009
The one thing that struck me most about All This, and Heaven Too (1940) was the artistic camera movements. From the very beginning of the film there were very long shots, with fluid moving cameras. Of the films I've seen from this era, this is quite rare. The director, Anatole Litvak took many risks in the camera sequences and shots. A somewhat bland and predictable script is come to life with superb acting and artistic direction. This film felt much like a modern classic, the young actresses carry the movie, something I have yet to see in a pre-1950 film. Another notable part of the film is the score by Max Steiner, the opening scene of movie is presented beautifully by a great score, these powerful sounds continue throughout the film. Overall All This, and Heaven More is a solid film, unfortunately various things had to make up for the poor script, otherwise this is a great piece of work.
Casablanca
(1942)
A Truly Iconic Film
20 October 2009
Casablanca (1942) is a great film that uncovers the pain and hardship that individuals had to deal with while living in a world that was at war. Humphrey Bogart's character, Rick Blaine, acts as the self-tortured protagonist, someone who "doesn't stick his neck out for no one". His character is powerfully dynamic and gripping, one cannot predict his actions. The casting and character writing are quite superb, everyone complements each other and Rick and Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman) create a powerful, passionate foil. The direction and lighting of the film are also very complementary to the great final product. Throughout the film there seems to be two different color and light schemes. The flashbacks offer bright and pretty light to go along with the uplifting flashback storyline. Once back in the bar the lighting is dark and ominous, giving the watcher the idea that something is not right in Casablanca. Casablanca has become an iconic film for numerous reasons, but one reason stands out. This film is about the struggle in a worn torn country and the struggle with ones past. To put it simply this film is real. There are very few false ideas and false feelings. Only films like this can stand the test of time.
Drums Along the Mohawk
(1939)
Drums Along the Mohawk
14 October 2009
Warning: Spoilers
Drums Along the Mohawk is an interesting film that deals with many issues pertaining to revolutionary era America. The costumes and language are not be period correct and the film has no real historical substance. But the script is sophisticated and there are many dynamic, round characters that help the plot sufficiently. Early in the film the two main characters, Gilbert Martin (Henry Fonda) and his wife Lana (Claudette Colbert) lose everything, spiraling them into a series of events throughout the film. There are many aspects of this film that are quite sub par, for one, the dated ideas on native Americans. This film shows Native Americans as barbarians and man hunters, Drums Along the Mohawk is certainly not a film that respects both sides of American Culture. Overall Drums Along the Mohawk is a dated 'historical' account of the revolutionary war. Besides the obvious reasons for not particularly liking the film, there are some very good, unique camera shots and angles throughout the movie. As a historical film, this one rates quite poorly, as a form of entertainment and movie for people to enjoy, it was quite good.
The Ox-Bow Incident
(1942)
The Ox Bow Incident
7 October 2009
The Ox-Bow Incident (1943) is a great western film with incredible acting and superb direction. There are numerous majestic scenes that span over mountains and prairies, showing just how far film had come since the silent era just two decades previous. The script is very well thought out and very well written, even the small, minor characters have profound and important lines. Another stand out aspect of the film is the powerful soundtrack. I've never heard a soundtrack like this before in an older film, the soundtrack fits the scenery and feeling of the film so well. William Wellman creates some beautiful scenes with expansive shots and quite perfect lighting. Overall The Ox-Bow Incident seems to be far ahead of its time in the western genre, the script is superb and the on location filming is beautiful.
Freaks
(1932)
Freaks, a horror.
7 October 2009
Freaks (1932) directed by Tod Browning is considered a horror film, but to me didn't seem very thrilling or scary, but it is a horror film nonetheless. But that is quite beside the point. This beautiful film portrays so many hardships that we as human beings face each and every day, not just freaks. Much like I am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang (1932), Freaks gives a powerful social commentary. Browning shows us what it is like to live in this world as a "freak", to be out casted and deemed crazy by other humans. Browning also shows the watcher that there are freaks all around us, not only those who are physically deformed. For instance, Henry Victor, known as Hercules in the movie, presents some very 'freakish' ideas and actions throughout. Browning uses his direction power very wisely in this film, he creates a world that does not stray far from the circus and there is a constant dark, foreboding undertone in every scene. Many people from our generation would not consider this film a 'horror' film because there are very few scary or thrilling scenes, but perhaps it is a horror film because the ideas and actions portrayed in the film, mostly by Cleopatra, are quite horrific.
In short, Freaks is a beautiful film that deals with many untapped issues that were very prevalent during the times in which the film was made. Browning creates a world on film that grips the viewer with powerful visuals, great lighting and most importantly a powerful story line.
In short, Freaks is a beautiful film that deals with many untapped issues that were very prevalent during the times in which the film was made. Browning creates a world on film that grips the viewer with powerful visuals, great lighting and most importantly a powerful story line.
Arsenic and Old Lace
(1944)
Not the Best
30 September 2009
Arsenic and Old Lace (1944) is an interesting studio-era comedy with numerous one-liner jokes and physical comedy. But throughout the film it is painfully obvious that it was a film made to sell. With fast shots and a quick script, the film moves well but suffers in other areas. Cary Grant (Mortimer Brewster) plays a well designed role and his acting is quite good, but his counterpart Pricsilla Lane (Elaine Harper) doesen't seem like a good enough fit. The two characters do not compliment each other well and there is no visible comedic conflict between them, a very important part of any comedic film. The story line itself is good and fairly well thought out, but its execution on screen is sub par. Among the early films I've seen this one ranks fairly low, it is a simple Hollywood production with not much more than a witty script and decent acting.
Bringing Up Baby
(1938)
Bringing up Baby a Timeless classic
29 September 2009
Bringing up Baby (1938) is one of the more famous of the "screwball comedies" coming out of the depression era. It is interesting to see what sort of films were created in the times of turmoil of the Great Depression. Bringing up Baby the sort of film America needed in these tough times, a funny, somewhat mindless, entertaining movie. The characters are well developed and the roles fit the parts quite well. Katherine Hepburn plays a character who is interrupting at the perfect moments throughout the film, her acting is superb throughout. Cary Grant plays a buttoned-up paleontologist who is about to get married. His role is one of the quite, reserved groom to be, a character many can relate with. The great part of the direction and acting in Bringing up Baby is the foil that the two actors create, at times it is almost hard to watch. For those unversed in older films (Pre-1950) it is hard to understand that there was always a comedic element to these early films. Comparing modern comedies to movies like Bringing up Baby one can see that the producers and directors of modern comedies, and almost all modern films, have learned a lot from the movies of the past. Relying only on witty scripts and solid acting old films like Bringing up Baby are timeless classics, not much can be said about the movies of our modern era.
Scarface
(1932)
Hughs' Direction Shines
17 September 2009
Scarface: The Shame of the Nation, directed by Howard Hughs is an excellent film that depicts so well the evolution of film from the silents of the mid-twenties to the sound films of the 30s. It is apparent that Hughs was simply ahead of his time as a director. He creates sequences with very few cuts and a moving camera, something that Hollywood directors weren't doing at the time. Perhaps it had to do with Hughs' OCD disorder, or his strive for constant perfection, but the direction Scarface stands out like no other. The acting in Scarface also stands out, Paul Muni and Ann Dvorak help the film along beautifully. The acting and direction is so well done in this film that it could be a silent one and the message would have come across just as well. One criticism would be the lighting used throughout the movie, it seems that with all the 'fancy' new technology of the day and sound, Hughs forgot about a key element of film making, lighting. In other films like, Sunrise, for example, the director (F.W. Murnau) isn't burdened with the idea of sound, therefore he focused more on lighting, cinematography and film effects. For moments in the film I felt as though Hughs got carried away with the idea of making a blockbuster film with full sound. Otherwise Scarface is a brilliant film, Hughs brings a real world feel into the theater with solid cinematography and long, moving shots. The direction is what makes this film shine as one of the best of the thirties.
I Am a Fugitive from a Chain Gang
17 September 2009
I Am A Fugitive from a Chain Gang, directed by Mervyn Leroy is a film that was far ahead of its time. Being one of the first sound films, director Mervyn Leroy wasted no time utilizing the new sound technology. Numerous scenes stand out with excessively loud sounds and noise that help depict the feeling of the characters in certain situations. The chain gang is given its character through the sounds that are produced by chains, pickaxes, and blood hounds. The sounds in these scenes create a particular mood that makes one feel and understand the brutality of the chain gang. It is interesting to see how and where Leroy used sound excessively throughout the movie, the only scenes where the sound stands out is in the chain gang scenes. Perhaps this is Leroy's way of drawing the audience in during the important scenes, it certainly makes the brutality of the chain gang much more real and present for those watching the film. Throughout the film there are some very interesting small details that a presented in the script and cinematography. For one, Leroy uses cinematic foreshadowing throughout the film, one of the most noticeable is the driving scene in the start and the final chase scene of the movie. Early in the movie Allen is driving a logging truck through treacherous steep hills while on the job somewhere in the country, this scene seems to portray some sort of darkness and doom but at this early stage in the film you wouldn't know what Allen's future held. The end chase scene is shot exactly the same, still creating some sort of feeling of impending doom. Perhaps Leroy didn't plan this minor foreshadow, but both scenes paint a picture of Allen running from something, trying to make it towards the future. I Am A Fugitive From a Chain Gang is a must see for any movie watcher, Leroy creates an astonishingly modern feel with his cinematography and sound. If you want to see good acting and a developed plot, check out this film.
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